“Lewis still possesses the fire for racing” – Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has confirmed Lewis Hamilton will continue with the team for two more seasons.
The inevitable has happened, with Lewis Hamilton extending his stay with Mercedes for two more seasons. And unlike the last contract extension (for this season), this time, it has been done relatively early, on the eve of the Austrian Grand Prix.
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) July 3, 2021
The seven-time world champion expressed delight at the agreement, thanking Mercedes for their unwavering support. Hamilton is trailing to Max Verstappen this season and would want to win this weekend to celebrate the announcement.
“It is hard to believe it’s been nearly nine years working with this incredible team and I’m excited we’re going to continue our partnership for two more years.
“We’ve accomplished so much together but we still have a lot to achieve, both on and off the track. I’m incredibly proud and grateful of how Mercedes has supported me in my drive to improve diversity and equality in our sport. They have held themselves accountable and made important strides in creating a more diverse team and inclusive environment.
“Thank you to all the dedicated and talented individuals at Mercedes whose hard work makes it all possible and the Board for their continued trust in me. We’re entering a new era of car which will be challenging and exciting and I can’t wait to see what else we can achieve together.”
Mercedes happy to continue with Hamilton
It is no secret that Toto Wolff is a huge admirer of the Brit. And as a testimony to it, he is open to the idea of Hamilton continuing with the team “as long as he wants”.
Wolff also expressed relief with the speed with which the agreement has been signed. His attention will now turn to finalize his partner – Valtteri Bottas or George Russell.
“As we enter a new era of F1 from 2022 onwards, there can be no better driver to have in our team than Lewis.
“His achievements in this sport speak for themselves, and with his experience, speed and racecraft, he is at the peak of his powers. We are relishing the battle we have on our hands this year – and that’s why we also wanted to agree this contract early, so we have no distractions from the competition on track.
“I have always said that as long as Lewis still possesses the fire for racing, he can continue as long as he wants.”
